McGill’s 2nd
Annual Aboriginal Awareness Week is just around the corner and the
First Peoples’ House and Living Library are teaming up to organize an
All-Aboriginal Living Library. I am reaching out to you because I think
you would make a great “Book” and would like to know if you are
interested in participating. The concept of a living library is the
coming together of individuals from all walks of life in an open and
safe environment. Volunteer ‘Books’ are real people who are able to
communicate their personal reality (eg.“60 Minutes with a Red Man” or
“Walking two paths: An urban Native experience” or “Being Two-Spirited”)
and are available to meet with interested ‘Reader(s)” for a 30-45
minute private encounter.

You will
need to come up with your own book title and brief book description. I
would be happy to help you brainstorm. It doesn’t have to be your full
life story. You should choose what you are comfortable sharing, be it
personal life or work experiences, a talent or share a piece of
knowledge that you’ve acquired. More information and examples of book
descriptions can be found here: http://www.mcgill.ca/livinglibrary/

First
held at a youth festival in Denmark in 2000, a living library event is
intended to break down stereotypes and challenge attitudes about
difference by fostering understanding among diverse members of a
community. The Aboriginal population is one that is very diverse and I
think this would be a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate the array of
past and current realities Aboriginal people have.

It will be held on Wednesday, September 26th from 11am-3pm at the Redpath Museum (see map: http://www.mcgill.ca/maps/?Building=179) and includes lunch. Based on your availability, you can participate for the full day or just part of the day.

Please let me know ASAP if you would like to participate! If you know someone else who would make a Book, please share this information!